The impact of HIV is felt globally, nationally and locally.
The Public Health Agency of Canada estimated that 65,040 Canadians were living with HIV in 2014, of whom an estimated 52,220 were diagnosed.
This means that an estimated 20 per cent of people in Canada with HIV are undiagnosed and unaware they are living with HIV.
This AIDS Awareness Week the public is encouraged to learn more about how HIV affects family, friends and community and to update their knowledge about HIV treatment and prevention.
There are many ways to participate in AIDS Awareness week; community members can join ARCH for a Night of Red celebrating resiliency art and activism, update their HIV status by getting tested and attend the annual Vigil on World AIDS Day on Dec. 1.
During AIDS Awareness Week and throughout December individuals are encouraged to wear a red scarf and show their commitment to stopping HIV stigma in the Guelph and Wellington community.
The Red Scarf Project is a social media and awareness campaign that encourages everyone to wear red scarves for AIDS Awareness Week and the month of December.
Awareness week events
– Nov. 24: A Night of Red – A night of arts and culture at Robusta Café from 7 to 11pm.
– Nov. 25: Drop in anonymous HIV testing at Guelph Community Health Centre from 1 to 3pm.
– Nov. 25: Red Scarf Project Pop Up at Old Quebec Street Shoppes from 10:30am to 4:30pm.
– Nov. 26: Tough Conversations Disclosure Workshop.
– Nov. 26: Sex Bingo from 7pm at NV Kitchen+ Bar.
– Dec. 1: World AIDS Day Vigil at 6:30pm and potluck at St. Andrew’s Church.
For information visit www.archguelph.ca/events.
